Sotheby’s to auction items once belonging to late Garech Browne

JEWELLERY which belonged to the late Garech Browne will go under the hammer at an auction taking place in Sotheby’s of London.

Among the highlights from the collection is a jewelled breast star from The Most Illustrious Order of St Patrick (pictured right) and a cameo portrait of a young woman who is thought to be Mary Queen of Scots.

Mr Browne was a notable patron of the arts and build up quite a collection at his residence at Luggala Estate before his passing in 2018.

A jewelled breast star is estimated to be valued at between £7,000 and £9,000. Founded by George III in 1783, during the American War of Independence, The Most Illustrious Order of St Patrick was bestowed to reward the loyalty of Irish peers. Appointed on 3 June 1918, Geoffrey Henry Browne, 3rd Baron Oranmore and Browne, and father of the late Garech Browne, became one of the last three non-royal Knights of the Order of St Patrick. Following the partition of Ireland in 1922 the only new appointees have been members of the Royal Family and, since the death of the last surviving Knight in 1974, the Order has become dormant.

A collection of Claddagh Rings range in price from £150 to £4,000. The collection includes some of the finest examples of such rings, the work of Galway goldsmiths from the late 18th century on.

Also up for auction is a cameo of a young woman from the 16th century. It is believed to be Italian in origin and it’s estimated value is between £4,000 and £6,000. The costume worn by the young lady in this charming cameo portrait is similar to that seen on a bust attributed to Domenico Poggini (1520-1590) and said to represent Lucrezia Pucci Ridolfi (1540-1568) in the Bargello in Florence. The identification of the sitter of the present gem as Mary Queen of Scots is not impossible but is difficult to prove.

Also for sale are reputed cuttings from the State Coach, redecorated for the Coronation of Queen Victoria in June 1838. It’s estimated worth is between £400 to £600.

A Stuart crystal portrait miniature and diamond ring from circa 1700 should fetch between £1,000 and £1,500. The ring, topped with rose diamonds, features a glazed painted miniature of King Charles I of England beside a skull and a banner.

The auction takes place on January 21 and also features property from another notable Irish house Killadoon.